Former Barclays bank in Eye could become health and wellbeing centre for women

A former bank in a Suffolk town could be turned into a health and wellbeing centre for women.

The Blossom Charity in Eye has applied to change the use of the building in Broad Street, which has stood empty since Barclays Bank closed in September.

The charity, set up to help those who want to reach their full potential, has more recently shifted its focus to building resilience, as well as working on wellbeing and health.

In its supporting statement, the centre, which has outgrown its current facility in Castle Street, says: “The building will provide a safe space for social and recreational interaction.

“The revitalisation of this building, for a beneficial, successful local charity, is of great community benefit.”

Two exercise studios and four treatment and coaching rooms would be needed to run events, including the centre’s “inspirational women” series.

The frontage of the building would undergo minor repairs, but would structurally remain unaltered.

The charity, which has recently shifted its focus to working on wellbeing, health, stress management, exercise and nutrition, believes the move to a larger facility would be of great benefit to the long-term future of the organisation.

In the report, it adds: “With the proposals for the building, employment will be sustained at the location.

“The expansion of the charity will help to maintain the vitality and viability of the town centre location.”

Minor landscaping works are proposed to the courtyard garden, including the removal of two trees.